Intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is the pressure inside the abdomen. Normal IAP is 0-5 mmHg, while sustained IAP above 12 mmHg is called intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH), and dangerous levels of swelling and pressure in the abdomen is called abdominal compartment syndrome […]
High resolution manometry
Manometry is a diagnostic technique used to measure pressure within the gastrointestinal tract. It involves the insertion of a thin, flexible tube with pressure sensors along its length into the gastrointestinal tract, typically through the nose or mouth. The tube […]
GI Paralysis
GI paralysis is expressed in the absence of stool passage and may include multiple other symptoms such as abdominal/bowel distension, nausea, vomiting, absence of bowel signs. GI paralysis may lead to severe consequences such as bowel ischemia and/or perforation via […]
Bowel Sounds (Frequency, Aspect)
Description: Bowel sounds may indicate peristaltic function and absent bowel sounds may hint paralysis [1]. Absent bowel sounds have been associated with negative outcomes. There is no clear definition and the assessment may be prone to subjectivity. It has been […]
Bowel Dilatation
Bowel dilatation refers to the diagnosis of an increased diameter (> 6cm colonic diameter or > 9 cm for caecum or > 3 cm for small bowels). Dilatation is confirmed radiologically and signs of increased intra-luminal pressure along with increased […]
Acoustic GI surveillance sensor
Acoustic monitoring of gastrointestinal function involves the use of microphones embedded in non-invasive devices that allow continuous and automated analysis of bowel sounds across the acoustic spectrum generated by the migrating myoelectric complex (MMC). 1,2 Feasibility/Equipment: The device is non-invasive and […]
Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine is an anti-inflammatory transmitter in the cholinergic pathway. Plasma acetylcholine levels have been shown to be significantly increased in critically ill patients tolerant to enteral nutrition compared to those with feeding intolerance. It has been suggested that the anti-inflammatory […]
Abdominal X-Ray
A diagnostic imaging test used to visualize the organs and structures in the abdomen. Repeated images with contrast media: a test used to visualize the gastrointestinal tract and assess its motility, often performed multiple times after the administration of contrast […]
Abdominal Distension
Description: Abdominal distension, an increase in abdominal size upon inspection, may indicate increased abdominal volume and bowel distension [1]. Abdominal distension is a non-specific sign. It is impossible to measure in the obese patients and clinical relevance is dependent upon […]